Band: We are not political

THE management of a popular Carnival band yesterday alleged its symbol is being used by a group which is attempting to register itself as a political party.

In a statement, the band Etienne and Friends said it produced a successful band on Carnival Monday called We the People.

The group claims another group recently registered with the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC), with a political symbol which bears the title, “We the People.” Etienne and Friends assured masqueraders, friends, supporters and well-wishers that it is not connected or associated with any political movement, party, pressure group or entity bearing this title.

The group also said its only objective is the provision of a space, “within our Carnival where masquerade remains true to its finest traditions” and is supported by live music from some of TT’s best musicians.” There is a public group on Facebook called, “We the People – All Shall Eat” which is co-ordinated by former justice minister Herbert Volney, but checks by Newsday with the EBC indicated there is no registered political party with the name, “We the People.” Volney could not be reached for comment.

There are 151 political parties registered in TT. Some are active, such the People’s National Movement, United National Congress, Movement for Social Justice and the Independent Liberal Party.

Others, such as Team Unity, Democratic Labour Party, Tapia House Movement and the Natural Law Party, are defunct.